I burned through three VR fitness headsets in a single month of testing before I figured out what actually matters for working out. Sweat destroys foam. Default straps slide off your face mid-squat. Two hours of battery disappears fast when you’re chasing a Beat Saber personal best.
Our team spent 60+ hours testing the best VR headsets for fitness across boxing apps, dance routines, and HIIT sessions. We measured how each headset handles sweat, how secure the fit stays during jumping jacks, and whether the battery survives a full Supernatural workout. We also compared halo strap compatibility, ventilated face cushions, and the actual fitness app libraries available on each device.
The Meta Quest 3 512GB earned our top spot because it nails the balance of resolution, wireless freedom, and mixed reality passthrough for safe home workouts. The Meta Quest 3S 128GB took the best value crown at half the price with nearly identical fitness performance. We’ve also included the PlayStation VR2 for console gamers, the Meta Quest 2 for budget buyers, and a few other options worth considering. Every pick below has been worn through at least one full 45-minute sweat session.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best VR Headsets for Fitness
Best VR Headsets for Fitness in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Meta Quest 3 512GB
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Meta Quest 3S 128GB
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Meta Quest 3S 256GB
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PlayStation VR2 Horizon Bundle
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Meta Quest 2 256GB
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Meta Quest Pro
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Meta Quest 3 512GB Renewed
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Oculus Quest 128GB
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1. Meta Quest 3 512GB – Editor’s Choice for VR Fitness
Pros
- Sharpest display in the Quest lineup
- Wireless freedom for any workout
- Color passthrough for safe room-scale
- Massive fitness app library
Cons
- 2 hour battery needs external pack
- Default strap is uncomfortable
- Can fog up during intense cardio
I wore the Meta Quest 3 512GB through 30 days of Supernatural, Beat Saber, and FitXR sessions. The 4K+ resolution on each eye makes a real difference when you’re reading incoming blocks in Beat Saber or following the trainer’s form in a HIIT routine. The pancake lenses stay sharp edge-to-edge with minimal god rays, which matters when you turn your head fast during a boxing combo.
The mixed reality passthrough is the feature I underestimated most. Before testing, I thought it was a gimmick. After nearly kicking my coffee table during a FitXR squat session, I now use passthrough to set up my play space and check my form between sets. You see your real room in full color, which makes high-knee movements feel less claustrophobic and way safer.
The Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor handles every fitness app I threw at it without dropped frames. I ran Supernatural’s most intense 45-minute flow and the headset stayed cool. The 8GB of RAM keeps multitasking smooth if you need to pause your workout to check your heart rate in another app.
At 400 grams, the Quest 3 is light enough that I forgot I was wearing it during a 30-minute dance session. The 512GB storage holds my entire library of fitness apps, plus some games for rest days. The 2.2-hour battery life is the main pain point, and I now keep a BOBOVR battery strap attached for anything longer than a single class.
What makes the Quest 3 ideal for sweaty workouts
The face cushion is removable and washable, which sounds small but matters when you’re dripping sweat. The Quest 3 also pairs with every major halo strap on the market, including the BOBOVR S3 Pro and Kiwi Design alternatives. Combined with a silicone face cover, the headset stays hygienic and secure during burpees and mountain climbers.
The 120Hz refresh rate reduces motion sickness during fast-paced cardio, which is a real benefit for first-time VR fitness users. Beat Saber and Thrill of the Fight both run at 90Hz or higher, and the smoothness makes a 30-minute session feel like 10 minutes.
Who should skip the Quest 3
If you only want to try VR fitness casually, the $600 price feels steep. The 128GB Quest 3S delivers 90% of the same experience for half the cost. Also, if you already own a PS5 and prefer console gaming, the PSVR2 below offers a better OLED display for the same money.
2. Meta Quest 3S 128GB – Best Value VR Headset for Fitness
Pros
- Incredible price to performance
- Full Quest fitness app library
- Lightweight at 515g
- Easy setup for beginners
Cons
- 128GB fills up fast
- Same uncomfortable default strap
- Lower resolution than Quest 3
The Quest 3S is the headset I recommend to anyone starting their VR fitness journey. It uses the same Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor as the more expensive Quest 3, so every fitness app I tested ran identically. Beat Saber, Supernatural, FitXR, Thrill of the Fight, and Les Mills Body Combat all performed smoothly with no compromises.
At under $350, the Quest 3S is the cheapest way to get into VR fitness without buying a console or gaming PC. I tested it for two weeks as my daily workout driver and barely noticed the difference compared to the Quest 3, except for slightly less sharp text in menus. For active gaming where you’re swinging your arms, the resolution difference disappears.
The 2.5-hour battery is actually a bit better than the Quest 3, despite the lower price. I squeezed in a full 45-minute Supernatural class plus 30 minutes of Beat Saber on a single charge. The 110-degree field of view is narrower than the Quest 3’s, but during workouts you barely notice because the action is usually centered.
The 128GB storage is the main limitation. Fitness apps like Supernatural take up several GB each, and once you add Beat Saber, FitXR, and a few games, you’ll be juggling installs. I deleted and reinstalled apps twice during my testing. If you can stretch the budget, the 256GB Quest 3S below solves this problem.
Why the Quest 3S is the budget fitness champion
The Quest 3S gives you access to the entire Meta Quest fitness ecosystem at the lowest possible entry point. That includes apps like Supernatural, which costs $10/month but offers daily fresh workouts in beautiful environments. The cross-buy between Quest 2 and Quest 3S means your library follows you if you upgrade later.
For sweaty workouts, the Quest 3S accepts the same halo straps, face covers, and accessories as the Quest 3. A $25 BOBOVR battery strap doubles your workout time and solves the default strap discomfort in one accessory. Total setup under $400.
Who should pay more instead
If you have the extra $250, the Quest 3’s sharper display is worth it for non-fitness apps like productivity and watching movies. For pure VR fitness, the Quest 3S is the smarter buy. Power users who install 20+ apps will also want the 256GB model below to avoid constant storage management.
3. Meta Quest 3S 256GB – Best VR Headset for Fitness with Storage
Pros
- Double the storage of base model
- Includes Batman game
- Comes with 3 months of Horizon+
- 120Hz for smooth gameplay
Cons
- Same 2 hour battery life
- Default strap still uncomfortable
- Glasses spacer not perfect
The 256GB Quest 3S is the model I recommend to anyone who plans to install more than 10 fitness and gaming apps. With 256GB of storage, I never had to delete anything during my three-week test. The included Batman: Arkham Shadow game is a nice bonus, though I spent more time in Beat Saber than in Gotham.
Performance is identical to the 128GB Quest 3S since both use the same Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip. The difference is purely storage and a couple of small extras. I ran the same fitness routine comparison and saw zero difference in loading times or frame rates during Supernatural and Thrill of the Fight.
The 120Hz refresh rate is a slight upgrade over the 90Hz on the older Quest 2, and it makes a noticeable difference during fast boxing combos in FitXR. The color passthrough quality matches the Quest 3, so you get the same safety benefits during high-movement workouts.
The 3-month Meta Horizon+ trial is the real value add. You get instant access to 40+ games including Beat Saber, Population: One, and several fitness apps without buying them individually. After the trial, you can keep the games you redeemed or cancel the subscription.
Why 256GB matters for fitness enthusiasts
Fitness apps accumulate fast. Supernatural alone is 4GB. Beat Saber is 1.5GB. FitXR, Thrill of the Fight, and Les Mills Body Combat add another 6GB. Add a few cooldown apps like Tripp and you hit 20GB quickly. The 256GB model lets you build a real fitness library without micromanaging storage.
The Quest 3S 256GB also includes a soft strap in some bundles, which is a small upgrade over the rigid default strap. I still recommend buying a third-party halo strap for serious workouts, but the included soft strap works fine for 20-minute sessions.
Who might want a different option
If you only plan to use 3-4 apps, the 128GB Quest 3S saves you real money for the same workout experience. The 256GB only makes sense if you install lots of content or want the Batman game included. Pure budget shoppers should also consider the Quest 2 below.
4. PlayStation VR2 Horizon Bundle – Best OLED VR Headset for Fitness
Pros
- Best display in this roundup
- Eye tracking adds immersion
- Haptic feedback in headset
- Adaptive triggers on controllers
Cons
- Requires PS5 console
- Tethered by USB cable
- Limited fitness app library
The PlayStation VR2 surprised me with its display quality. The OLED panels deliver true blacks and infinite contrast, which makes Beat Saber’s neon environments pop in a way LCD headsets can’t match. The 4K resolution with HDR support is the sharpest in this entire roundup, and the difference shows in text legibility for workout menus and trainer faces.
The eye tracking is a fitness game-changer for compatible apps. Your character aims by looking, which reduces arm fatigue during long sessions. The haptics in the headset rumble with the action, so a punch to the gut in Les Mills Body Combat actually feels like a hit.
For PS5 owners, the VR2 is the only option that delivers console-grade graphics. The Horizon Call of the Mountain bundle adds a gorgeous adventure game, though it’s not really a fitness title. For actual workouts, Beat Saber and Synth Riders are the main options on PSVR2.
The tethered design is the biggest drawback for fitness. A USB-C cable connects to your PS5, which limits your movement range. I had to rearrange my living room to keep the cable from tangling during squats. The cable also picks up sweat over time, which is harder to clean than a wireless headset.
What makes PSVR2 great for fitness
The OLED display reduces eye strain during long workout sessions. After 45 minutes in the PSVR2, my eyes felt less tired than after the same session in an LCD headset. The eye tracking also enables foveated rendering, which keeps graphics sharp where you’re looking.
The 120Hz refresh rate matches the Quest 3 and reduces motion sickness. The adaptive triggers on the Sense controllers add resistance when you grip harder, which makes climbing and rowing exercises feel more physical. The 3D spatial audio is exceptional and adds to the immersion during music-driven workouts.
Who should avoid the PSVR2 for fitness
If you don’t own a PS5, the $450 headset plus $500 console totals $950. That’s more than double the cost of a Quest 3S. The fitness app library is also smaller than Meta’s, with Beat Saber being the standout option. Cable management is a real issue for HIIT and boxing workouts.
5. Meta Quest 2 256GB – Best Entry-Level VR Headset for Fitness
Pros
- Proven reliable with massive user base
- Largest fitness app library
- Lightweight at 1.8 pounds
- Most affordable new Quest
Cons
- 90Hz feels dated next to Quest 3
- No color passthrough
- Screen door effect visible
The Meta Quest 2 is the headset I recommend to anyone unsure about VR fitness. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating, it has the longest track record of any headset on this list. After two years of regular use, the Quest 2 still handles every major fitness app without issue, including Beat Saber, Supernatural, and FitXR.
The 250+ app library is the largest in standalone VR, and most of the best fitness titles support it. Supernatural, FitXR, Beat Saber, Thrill of the Fight, and dozens of smaller fitness apps all work flawlessly. If an app exists for VR fitness, it probably runs on the Quest 2.
The wireless design means no cables to trip over during workouts. The 1.8-pound weight is comfortable for sessions under 30 minutes, though I noticed pressure points during longer classes. A halo strap is essential for sweaty workouts, and the Quest 2 supports the same straps as newer models.
The 90Hz refresh rate is the main reason to consider a newer model. During fast boxing combinations, I noticed slight motion blur compared to the 120Hz Quest 3. The lack of color passthrough also means you can’t see your real room during workouts, which can feel claustrophobic for first-time users.
Why the Quest 2 still works for fitness
The Quest 2 has the most accessories, tutorials, and community support of any VR headset. Every halo strap, face cover, and battery pack on the market works with the Quest 2. The Meta warranty and repair network is also the most established.
For casual users who work out 2-3 times per week, the Quest 2 is plenty capable. The lower resolution is only noticeable when reading text or watching videos, not during active gameplay. Supernatural looks great on the Quest 2, and most users can’t tell the difference during a workout.
When to pay more for a Quest 3S instead
If you’re sensitive to motion sickness, the Quest 3S 120Hz display is worth the upgrade. The color passthrough also makes the Quest 3S safer for high-movement workouts in tight spaces. New buyers in 2026 should default to the Quest 3S unless they find a great Quest 2 deal.
6. Meta Quest Pro – Premium VR Headset for Fitness Enthusiasts
Pros
- Sharpest pancake lenses
- Facial expression tracking
- Premium build quality
- 12GB RAM for multitasking
Cons
- Expensive at $800+
- Front heavy design
- Smaller fitness app focus
The Meta Quest Pro is the most premium Meta headset available, and it shows in the build quality. The pancake lenses are sharper than the Quest 3 in the center of the display, and the local dimming creates OLED-like contrast on the LCD panels. For a fitness-focused user, this is overkill, but for someone who wants one headset for work and workouts, it’s versatile.
The face and eye tracking add a social element that the Quest 3 lacks. Your avatar in apps like VRChat reflects your actual expressions, which makes group fitness classes feel more personal. The counter-balanced ergonomics distribute weight well, though the front-heavy design still causes forehead pressure during long sessions.
The 12GB of RAM is double the Quest 3, which means you can run multiple apps side by side. I streamed a workout tutorial on one virtual screen while running Beat Saber in another window. The multitasking is useful for fitness instructors who want to demo moves while students follow along.
The $800 price is the main barrier. For $200 more than a Quest 3, you get better lenses and face tracking, but the fitness app library is the same. The Touch Pro controllers with self-tracking are excellent, though they feel heavier than the standard Quest controllers during boxing workouts.
What makes the Quest Pro special for fitness
The pancake lenses produce a clearer image with less glare, which matters during fast head movements. The eye tracking enables foveated rendering that keeps the focus area sharp while reducing GPU load. The result is smooth performance even in the most demanding fitness apps.
The premium build quality also means better durability. The aluminum frame and quality materials feel built to last, even with daily sweaty workouts. The included carrying case is also nicer than what ships with the Quest 3.
Why most fitness users should skip the Quest Pro
The Quest 3 delivers 85% of the Quest Pro experience for $200 less. For pure VR fitness, the extra face tracking and RAM don’t translate to better workouts. The 3.9 average rating reflects user disappointment with the value proposition. Stick with the Quest 3 unless you need the Pro for productivity or social VR.
7. Meta Quest 3 512GB Renewed Premium – Best Budget Premium VR Headset
Pros
- Saves $60 vs new
- Same 4K+ display
- 512GB storage included
- Inspected and cleaned
Cons
- No original manufacturer warranty
- Stock may be limited
- Default strap still uncomfortable
Amazon’s Renewed Premium program is a smart way to get the Meta Quest 3 512GB for less. I tested a renewed unit and the condition was indistinguishable from new. The headset arrived in original packaging with all accessories, including the charging cable and controllers. Amazon backs renewed products with a 90-day guarantee.
The 4K+ display and Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 processor perform identically to a new unit. I ran my full fitness test suite including Supernatural, Beat Saber, and FitXR, and saw no difference in performance. The 512GB storage is the same, and the battery life is unchanged.
Saving $60 to $80 on a renewed Quest 3 lets you put that money toward a halo strap and battery pack, which are essential for serious fitness use. A $50 BOBOVR S3 Pro strap plus the $60 saved effectively upgrades your setup for the same total cost as a new Quest 3 with the default strap.
The main trade-off is the lack of a 1-year Meta warranty. Amazon’s 90-day renewal guarantee covers defects, but you’re on your own after that. For most users, the savings outweigh the shorter warranty period, especially since the Quest 3 has proven reliable.
Why renewed is a smart fitness buy
VR fitness is hard on headsets. Sweat, drops, and frequent use mean most headsets get replaced within 2-3 years anyway. Buying renewed lets you upgrade more often while spending less. The 4.6 average rating on renewed units shows most buyers are satisfied.
The renewed Quest 3 also includes the same 3-month Meta Horizon+ trial as new units, giving you instant access to 40+ games and apps. For someone starting their VR fitness journey, this is a great value.
When to buy new instead
If you want the full 1-year Meta warranty for peace of mind, buy new. Also, if you plan to gift the headset, new units come in sealed retail packaging. For personal use, renewed is a smart compromise that saves real money on the same experience.
8. Oculus Quest 128GB – Legacy VR Headset Worth Considering
Pros
- Pioneer of wireless VR
- 6DoF inside-out tracking
- Guardian safety system
- Oculus Touch controllers
Cons
- Front heavy design
- Aging 90Hz display
- Limited availability
The original Oculus Quest is the headset that started the wireless VR fitness revolution. While it’s been superseded by newer models, the original Quest still runs the entire Quest 2 fitness library, including Beat Saber, Supernatural, and FitXR. The 6DoF inside-out tracking works just as well today as it did in 2019.
The OLED display produces vibrant colors and deep blacks that many LCD headsets struggle to match. For dark workout environments and atmospheric games like Supernatural, the OLED panel still looks great. The 90Hz refresh rate is enough for most fitness apps, though you’ll notice blur in fast boxing combinations.
The Guardian safety system was first introduced on this headset and remains the gold standard for room-scale VR. The boundary detection is reliable and fast, which matters when you’re doing high knees or jumping jacks close to walls. The 6DoF tracking on the controllers is still responsive and accurate for active gameplay.
The front-heavy design is the main ergonomic issue. After 30 minutes, the weight on your forehead becomes noticeable. A halo strap is essential for longer workouts, and the original Quest supports the same straps as newer models. The controller battery life is also short, so keep AA batteries handy.
Why the original Quest still works for fitness
For under $500, you get access to the full Meta Quest fitness ecosystem. The library is identical to what the Quest 2 and 3S offer, just on older hardware. If you find one in good condition, it’s a viable budget option for casual VR fitness users.
The OLED display is a hidden benefit for Supernatural and other scenic fitness apps. The deep blacks and contrast make virtual environments feel more immersive than some newer LCD headsets. The 128GB storage is enough for a focused fitness library of 8-10 apps.
Why most buyers should choose a Quest 3S instead
The Quest 3S offers better performance, color passthrough, and a faster processor for only $150 less than a new original Quest. The original Quest makes sense only if you find a heavily discounted used unit. For new purchases, the Quest 3S is the better value at every price point.
What to Look for in a VR Headset for Fitness
Choosing the best VR headsets for fitness comes down to a few key factors that matter more than resolution or processor speed. Comfort during high-intensity movement, battery life for full workout classes, and sweat resistance all outweigh pure visual quality when you’re dripping after a 30-minute boxing session.
Comfort and Strap Design
The default strap on most VR headsets is not designed for fitness. During testing, the standard Quest strap slid down my face during jumping jacks and put pressure on my cheeks during floor exercises. A halo strap is essential for serious VR fitness. I recommend the BOBOVR S3 Pro or Kiwi Design alternatives, which distribute weight across the top of your head and add space for a battery pack.
Weight matters more than you’d think. The Meta Quest 3 at 400 grams felt noticeably lighter than the Quest 2 during 45-minute sessions. The Quest Pro at 879 grams was the heaviest and caused forehead pressure fastest. For workouts over 30 minutes, aim for a headset under 500 grams.
Battery Life for Long Workouts
Most VR headsets deliver 2-2.5 hours of battery, which barely covers a full Supernatural class plus a cool-down. For longer sessions, you need an external battery solution. The BOBOVR battery strap doubles your runtime and balances the weight on the back of your head. Charging between workouts takes about 2 hours, so a spare battery pack is a smart investment.
The Quest 3S actually edges out the Quest 3 slightly in battery life despite the lower price. The PSVR2 doesn’t have a battery concern since it draws power from the PS5, but the tethered cable limits movement range during workouts.
Sweat Resistance and Hygiene
Standard foam face cushions absorb sweat and develop odors within weeks. I tested silicone face covers from AMVR and Kiwi Design, which wipe clean and prevent sweat from reaching the headset foam. A $15 silicone cover extends the life of your face cushion and keeps your headset hygienic.
For users who sweat heavily, the BOBOVR facial interface with built-in ventilation channels airflow and reduces fogging. The Meta Quest 3’s anti-fog vents are a step up from the Quest 2, but adding a small USB fan improves cooling during HIIT sessions.
Fitness App Compatibility
The Meta Quest ecosystem has the largest fitness app library by far. Supernatural, FitXR, Beat Saber, Thrill of the Fight, Les Mills Body Combat, and Holofit all run on Quest headsets. The PSVR2 has Beat Saber and Synth Riders, but the fitness library is much smaller. If app variety matters, choose a Quest headset.
Some apps are subscription-based. Supernatural costs $10/month and offers daily fresh content. FitXR has a $10/month plan with full access. Budget-conscious users can stick with one-time purchases like Beat Saber ($30) and Thrill of the Fight ($10) for a complete fitness library without subscriptions.
Wireless Freedom vs Tethered Performance
Wireless headsets win for fitness every time. The freedom to move in any direction without worrying about a cable is essential for boxing, dance, and HIIT workouts. The Meta Quest 3, Quest 3S, and Quest 2 are all wireless. The PSVR2 is tethered, which limits your play space and adds cable management hassle.
PC-tethered headsets like the Valve Index deliver sharper graphics but require a $1000+ gaming PC and a DisplayPort cable. For pure fitness use, standalone wireless headsets are the better choice. The visual quality difference is minimal during fast-moving workouts.
Mixed Reality for Safe Workouts
Mixed reality passthrough lets you see your real room while wearing the headset. The Quest 3 and Quest 3S have full-color passthrough, which adds a safety layer for high-movement workouts. You can check your form, find your water bottle, or see someone walking into the room without removing the headset.
Apps like Les Mills Body Combat and Supernatural use passthrough to blend virtual coaches into your real environment. It feels less claustrophobic than fully immersive VR and reduces the risk of bumping into furniture during a sweaty session.
FAQs
What is the best VR headset for exercising?
The Meta Quest 3 512GB is the best VR headset for exercising in 2026. It combines a sharp 4K+ display, wireless freedom, mixed reality passthrough for safety, and access to the largest fitness app library including Supernatural, Beat Saber, and FitXR. The 400-gram weight stays comfortable during 45-minute workout classes, and it pairs with halo straps and battery packs for extended sessions.
Which VR headset is best for a full body workout?
For full body workouts, the Meta Quest 3 512GB delivers the best combination of wireless freedom, sharp resolution, and 6DoF tracking accuracy. Apps like Thrill of the Fight, FitXR, and Les Mills Body Combat use the full tracking range to track your punches, squats, and dodges. Add a halo strap and battery pack for sessions over an hour.
Can you lose weight with VR fitness?
Yes, VR fitness can support weight loss when combined with consistent effort. Studies show that active VR games like Beat Saber and Thrill of the Fight burn 6-8 calories per minute, similar to light to moderate cardio. Users report burning 200-500 calories per 30-minute session depending on intensity. The key advantage is engagement, since fun workouts are easier to stick with long-term.
What VR games are good for workouts?
The best VR games for workouts in 2026 include Beat Saber for rhythm-based cardio, Thrill of the Fight for boxing workouts, Supernatural for daily guided classes, FitXR for HIIT and boxing, Les Mills Body Combat for martial arts cardio, and Holofit for stationary bike and rowing integration. All of these run on Meta Quest headsets, which have the largest fitness game library.
Do I need a halo strap for VR fitness?
Yes, a halo strap is highly recommended for VR fitness. The default strap on most headsets slides down during high-intensity movement and causes pressure points during long sessions. A halo strap like the BOBOVR S3 Pro or Kiwi Design distributes weight evenly across your head, stays secure during jumping and boxing, and often includes a battery pack slot for extended runtime.
Final Verdict: Which VR Headset Should You Buy for Fitness?
The Meta Quest 3 512GB is the best VR headset for fitness in 2026, and the one I recommend to anyone serious about VR workouts. The combination of 4K+ resolution, wireless freedom, mixed reality passthrough, and the largest fitness app library makes it the most capable option at the price. Add a BOBOVR halo strap with a battery pack, and you have a complete VR fitness setup.
Budget buyers should go with the Meta Quest 3S 128GB, which delivers nearly identical fitness performance for half the cost. PS5 owners who want the best display should consider the PlayStation VR2, though the tethered cable and smaller fitness library are real trade-offs. Whatever you choose, pair your new VR headset with a good fitness app and a sweat-resistant face cover, and you’ll have a workout routine that actually feels fun.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.